On St. Patrick’s Day, World Cup Champion exudes Irish Pride & shares stories of Prejudice

It’s no doubt that Argentine World Footballer, Alexis Mac Allister, sticks out from the rest of his national side teammates. From his physical appearance to his surname, the Brighton International star has always been looked at as an outsider in his home country and when playing for his national side. For years, he even had to endure taunts from his teammates calling him “colo” or ginger in Spanish. The taunts from his own teammates have since stopped, when his captain and seven-time Ballon d’Or award winner, Lionel Messi told his teammates to stop.

“I’m proud of my Irish and Scottish heritage, however, being constantly reminded that I descend from the Isles and not from Iberia has gotten really old,” admitted Mac Allister. “Come on guys, can’t you tease me better than that? Name calling based on physical appearance is so 3rd division trash talk that it lacks any cleverness or originality that we Argentines are proud of.”

Mac Allister, however, shared that he still must endure prejudice from the home supporters at away games. When traveling to South American neighbor and bitter rival, Brazil, he makes sure to bring extra milk to games and pack a “to-go” bag. Reportedly fans of the Seleção, have thrown racially motivated items in the direction of the Albiceleste star including boxes of Lucky Charms cereal and carrots.

“I actually appreciate the cereal and carrots they throw at me. Our team enjoys having boxes with Lucky the Leprechaun thrown on the field whenever we play Brazil. Last time we played in Maracanã, we had the luck of the Irish on our side as we beat them to win Copa America,” Mac Allister shared. “We also celebrated our victory by having milk with Pink Hearts, Orange Stars, Yellow Moons, and Green Clovers out of the trophy itself. And the carrots are always a great snack that I bring back for my pet rabbit, Thumper.”

Mac Allister ended the interview on St Patrick’s day by saying “Sláinte” and encouraged footballers and supporters alike to follow FIFA’s campaign of #NoDiscrimination. Aspirationally, he hopes that his own national team supporters rise above their harmful racist actions and refrain from bringing bananas into football matches.